VTG delivering the goods

First batch of DB Cargo’s new fleet of 85 enhanced-specification box wagons arrive in the UK

THE first batch of a new fleet of 85 box wagons ordered by VTG Rail UK for DB Cargo has been delivered to the freight operator, boosting its haulage capability.

The wagons, which were built to a unique and enhanced specification by Astra Rail in Romania, feature high-strength sidewalls, floors and cant rails, making them more resilient to damage than older designs.

They are also fitted with track-friendly bogies and have a high payload, meaning they are extremely efficient and economical to operate.

Ian Shaw, VTG’s sales and marketing director, said: ‘Our experience allows us to offer our customers market leading levels of design, availability and reliability, not just in the short term, but for the life of the wagons.’

Mick Tinsley, BIC sector head for DB Cargo, added: ‘These wagons will further improve our box wagon fleet to support the continued growth in the construction market for rail and DB Cargo’s long-term strategy to provide the most efficient wagon solutions for our customers.’

The order and arrival of the new wagons reflects the optimism still running through the rail construction sector. Billions of pounds worth of major infrastructure projects have been given the green light in recent years and many others are in the pipeline.

Schemes such as Crossrail 1 and 2, HS1 and HS2, Hinkley power station, and railway upgrades will all need rail wagons to bring equipment and materials into and out of sites.